WIREDGOV

New projects to tackle declining biodiversity and deliver benefits to communities are set to receive funding thanks to a further £3m Nature Fund investment, Natural Resources Minister Carl Sargeant has announced.

The eighteen projects range from work to improve river catchments and marine ecosystems, to a peatlands restoration project in Snowdonia and a project to involve local communities in managing woodland in the Brecon Beacons.  

Carl Sargeant said:

“We must recognise that our communities, our economy and our environment are closely interlinked.  Improving biodiversity is key to sustainable land management.  By recognising these links, we can improve our environment and deliver economic and social benefits for Wales.  Our investment is directed at achieving the maximum possible long-term benefit.”  

The fund is supporting practical actions across Wales to improve biodiversity.  The projects include a £180,000 grant to improve habitat around the River Elwy, working with landowners and local villages and £128,000 for groups of farmers coming together to put in place sustainable land management plans and improve habitats on farmland to help wildlife and local communities.

In Torfaen, the Pollinators for Life project will receive £282,100. This collaborative project, led by Torfaen County Council County Council will work to promote sustainable land management and improve habitats for pollinating species across the South Wales Valleys.

The Minister added:

“I have been impressed by the interest the Fund has generated, in particular the response we’ve had on several collaborative farmer led proposals. Considering this level of interest and the willingness of partners to work together, the Deputy Minister and I will be looking to make a further announcement on funding and how the work done by the Nature Fund will become part of the Rural Development Programme.”

A full list of the collaborative projects receiving funding from the Nature Fund can be found on the Welsh Government website.

Related Links